Accra: As part of activities marking the 100th anniversary of the Sacred Heart Cathedral Parish in Bolgatanga, a cultural night was held to showcase the rich cultural diversity within the church community. The event brought together various cultural groups worshipping in the parish, including the Frafras, Dagaabas, Kasenas, Builsas, Kusasis, Mamprusis, Ewes, Nigerians, and Bimobas, among others, with each group exhibiting their unique traditional attire, drama, music, dance, and customs reflective of their ethnic heritage.
According to Ghana News Agency, the cultural night served as a platform for parishioners to celebrate their cultural identities and history in a spirit of unity. It aimed to harness the parish’s cultural diversity to promote unity, social cohesion, and deepen appreciation for the Word of God. The climax of the centenary celebrations is scheduled for June 28, 2025, on the theme: ‘Celebrating 100 Years of Walking Together as a Family of God.’
Speaking at the event, Very Reverend Father Samuel Ayinbora Atinga, Cathedral Administrator of Sacred Heart Cathedral Parish, emphasized that the cultural night was not only a celebration of heritage but also a testament to the church’s commitment to inclusivity and harmony among its diverse congregation. ‘Our diversity is a strength,’ he noted. ‘By celebrating our cultures together, we strengthen our bond as one family in Christ and deepen our shared understanding of the Word of God.’
The cultural night was a major highlight of the Sacred Heart Cathedral’s centenary celebrations, which include a series of spiritual, social, and developmental activities aimed at reflecting on the parish’s journey over the past century and inspiring growth for the future. In addition to the cultural night, the Church also organized a Frafra music concert to showcase talents and traditional music of the indigenous people, further strengthening efforts to preserve cultural heritage and promote the potential of local musicians.
Many attendees described the event as uplifting and spiritually enriching, commending the parish leadership for creating a space that honors both tradition and faith. Established in 1925, the Sacred Heart Cathedral Parish under the Catholic Diocese of Navrongo-Bolgatanga, is one of the oldest Catholic churches in Northern Ghana and continues to play a pivotal role in the religious and social life of the Upper East Region.